Last Blog

Hello Fellow Bloggers,
   This is indeed my last blog and I am a little upset about it. I never really saw myself as the blogger type, but once I was given the opportunity (or in other words the mandatory assignment), I really seemed to get enjoy it. I like the idea of finally writing down all of those floating thoughts in my head.  And by writing down those thoughts, I was finally able to come to conclusion with myself on those specific ideas and how, what, or when I should fulfill them.  For instance, I was finally able to come to conclusion on my short-term goals, long-term goals, and my summer fun list.  Ever since I wrote those bullet points, I have been so excited to fulfill and accomplish each one and see where those experiences takes me.  After I gain all of those memories and adventures, I know I will become a better version of myself and that excites me more than anything.  I also liked the idea of providing fun tips to share.  I don't really have the most creative or helpful tricks of trade, but anything can help.  I liked to read the positive feed back in the comment area and also to hear other shared ideas to improve myself.  Everyday I strive to be better and so I am always eager to learn new tips and tricks on how to do so.  Overall, blogging was a fun and positive experience and maybe in the near future, when I begin a whole new chapter of my life, I will pick it up again to share my adventures. But for now, I say goodbye and thank you for reading Gluten Free by Chance, Healthy by Choice.

-Laura Rita-

Summer Checklist

Hello Bloggers!
 
   With summer vastly approaching, I began developing a mental checklist of all the things I would like to do this summer.  It seems like almost every year I form these mental checklist and the next thing I know, it's the end of August, summer is over, and my check list remains untouched.  I decided to final transform my unsuccessful, mental checklist into a written blog, hoping I will be able to accomplish more and to share my potential summer fun. Without further or do, here is my Summer 2016 Checklist:

-Go to the Bahamas with my family at the end of May (that was already planned)
-Go to Six Flags
-Go to the beach once a month
-Go to Country Thunder at the end of July (that was also already planned)
-Attend as many Thursday night "Concerts in The Park" in Rosemont, IL.
-Have my first club experience in downtown Chicago
-Go to a Cub's game.
-Go to the Taste of Chicago
-Go to the Air and Water Show
-Potentially attend one day of Lollapalooza

Last but not least....
-Have an amazing summer with my friends and family and cherish every second of it.

I am super excited for summer being right around the corner and I can not wait to finally be home in Chicago and enjoy it. Let me know what your summer checklist is.

*Gluten-Free by Chance, Healthy by Choice*
-Laura Picardi-

Staying Productive

Hello Viewers!
    Do you have ever have those days where you need to get so much done in such little time and then you end up accomplishing everything and anything else besides what really needed to be completed? If you followed me on what I just stated, this happens to me a little too often.  Especially with graduation vastly approaching in just four weeks, some days I will clean my room, clean the house, go grocery shopping, workout, and then boom its 10 PM and I can barely keep my eyes open.  It's all about balance and determining your priorities.  Unfortunately, at this specific time in my life school work seems to be the absolute last thing on my agenda everyday because I am just so darn sick of it.  But as I mentioned before  I have only 4 weeks left and I need to be on my A Game to finish strong.  In order to keep my focused on what is important, I began making lists of what needs to be completed in order of importance.  I will also write a time frame of how long I should spend on each task, so time isn't wasted.  I always feel that there is never enough hours in a day, so this helps me use my day wisely and to make every hour count.  Also, I only have class on Tuesday and Thursday (second semester senior perks), but I still set an alarm for Monday, Wednesday, and Friday to keep myself in a routine.  Without an alarm I feel unproductive because there is no urgency to get up and start my day on the right note.  If you are experiencing these same symptoms, try these tips and hopefully you will see some progress.

*Gluten Free by Chance, Healthy by Choice*
-Laura Rita-

What's On My Mind

Hello fellow bloggers,
    Happy Sunday. I am going to take about something we either like or dislike, relationships. As a 21 year old, female, college student, I can speak for majority of people that everyone has a love/hate relationship with the topic.  I am currently very much single and couldn't be happier. Being single I am able to strictly focus on myself, my friends, and family.  Between my internship, school assignments piling up to my ears, having to devote time to work out, go to the grocery store, clean the house, and anything else that fills up my day, it can get a tad busy.  Not having to worry about another individual is extremely relieving and helps me isolate my mindset to what is important to me. Though, there is a part of me that questions if that is how I actually feel about the situation or if I have convinced myself into thinking thats how I feel. It's a toss up.  I would say that it is a tad ridiculous to be in a serious relationship at such a young age, but the comfort of having someone always there is something I long for.  I have great friends that are always there for me when I need them, but there is something about having just that one special person to turn to and not have to feel that you are bothering or burdening them.  But like I mentioned before, I am only 21 and my life is just beginning.  After graduation and once I finally have money to my name, I plan on traveling and experiencing as much as I can.  Once I finally see what the world has to offer, then I will be able to open my mind and heart to a relationship.  For now, I am content being single but look forward to what and who my future has in store for me.

*Gluten Free by Chance, Healthy by Choice*
-Laura Rita-

When Life Happens

Hello Fellow Viewers,
   I hope everyone is refreshed and ready to start the new week with a positive attitude. So, I was a little stumped on what to write about because my mind is racing in twenty different directions. Between end of the year deadlines, my portfolio being due, group projects, my internship, graduation, and committing to full-time with my job, I can't seem to get a firm grip on anything. In other words, life is happening and I am stumped on where or what to begin with.  But even when life is in full swing and about to over flow, I never allow myself to be distracted from the things that make me happy.  For instance, no matter how busy I am, I always face-time my best friends from home, Francesca and Rachel, and either call or text my parents to let them know I am alive and well. I am also a huge, huge, HUGE Netflix fan and I am extremely proud of my collection of television shows, so I always make time to keep up on the latest seasons or episodes. I have mentioned previously that fitness is huge part of my life, and two hours everyday is strictly left for me to burn off some steam at the gym. Lastly, I take time in taking care of myself.  What I mean by that is clearly through what I consume, but also what I use on my skin and hair.  I am a nut when it comes to using products on my skin and hair and the chemicals that are within the products. I am a lover of the Lush products, because everything is hand-made with natural ingredients and each product states who made it, on what date and what time, so I know the product is fresh. I use a morning/day face wash and face lotion, and a night face wash/lotion for when my body is repairing itself.  On my skin I use coconut oil, so my skin absorbs natural ingredients rather than the chemicals used within in body lotions.  I also use coconut oil in my hair. I use bare mineral make-up and I never go to bed with my make up on.  By taking just a little time out of my day to pamper my body in the way it properly needs, I feel so much healthier and happier.  It's a nice stress reliever. So if you are currently extremely over whelmed with school, stop what you are doing, put the phone and laptop down and go take a hot shower and pamper yourself for half an hour. You will feel so refreshed and get more things accomplished, while feeling rejuvenated. My point is to never let yourself stop from doing the things you love and stop taking care of yourself. No matter how busy you may be, keeping yourself happy and healthy is the most important thing.

*Gluten Free by Chance, Healthy by Choice*
-Laura Rita-

Smart Grocery Shopping

Hello there!
   Today I am going to provide some small, helpful tips that you can use while at the grocery store and want to make healthier decisions.  Grocery shopping can be a very difficult task for certain people, especially if they have never been taught on how to smart shop properly.  For example, one day my roommate came home with three different types of chips, cookie dough, a bag of cookies, and milk. (This is a true story) She then realized, once she got home, that her poor decisions left her with no healthy options for the week or even a meal.  Grocery shopping can be stressful and overwhelming if you do not have a written list that states exactly what you need to purchase and to make sure that each item can be used in several different meal options.  That is what I consider "smart shopping". Since, my fellow roommates and I are on the "college budget" some items are out of our reach , but that doesn't mean we can't eat healthy, well balanced meals.  So let's begin! Sandwiches are considered a staple in a college students diet because its quick, easy, and requires little to none eating utensils involved.  Sandwiches can either be packed with nutritious ingredients or high in fat and sodium ingredients. So how to make the perfect "Scooby-Doo" sandwich that is filling, delicious, and high in nutritional value?  First, we choose a multigrain bread.  Then a lunch meat that is low in sodium, my personal favorite is Oscar Mayer Naturals Oven Roasted Chicken Breast packaged lunch meat.  The chicken breast is high in protein, low in sodium, fat, and carbs, versus the turkey breast product.  Next, pick a low in fat, white cheese.  It was proven that cheeses lighter in the color are better for you.  I personally pick Sargento's low-fat provolone cheese.  After that, we move onto garnishing our delicious sandwich.  I typically top my sandwiches with spinach, avocado, tomato, onion, and mustard.  Spinach provides more nutritional value than lettuce, avocado provides a healthy source of fat, onion is just great with everything, and mustard is one of the healthier condiment options.  Boom your ideal "Scooby-Doo" sandwich is complete, piled high, and deliciously healthy.
Here are other tips to keep in mind while grocery shopping:
-Water over soda
-Purchase low-fat dairy products
-Greek yogurt over regular
-Almond milk is the healthiest option and tastes the same.
-Tortilla Chips with salsa or pretzels (for the chip/snack lovers)
-Buy fruits and veggies (you will be forced to finish them before they spoil)
-Dark Chocolate (for the sweet tooth)
Hopefully these tips help make your grocery shopping experience easier and beneficial. Please comment below with additional tips!

*Gluten-Free by Chance, Healthy by Choice*
-Laura Rita-

Eating Out and Eating Healthy

Hello Fellow Bloggers,
   So I was a tad puzzled on what to write about this week, but I decided to provide advice on what many of my friends come to me for, healthy eating suggestions.  I am not a huge health freak, but being gluten free and maintaining a healthy diet, I would say I eat pretty well for a 21 year old college student.  I also try to limit myself from eating out as much, which can be struggle because "getting food" is always a go-to plan when groceries are low or bored with friends.  But even when I splurge and eat out with friends, I make sure I chose an item on the menu that provides nutritional value.  That is key.  Always strive to purchase and consume food that will benefit your body and functionality.  Greasy, junk food does not provide anything for your body and it will result in feeling sluggish and most likely a stomach ache. I am a huge, huge, hugggeeee lover of Chipotle and since it's consider as a healthier fast food alternative, I never feel guilty visiting once a week. I am a burrito bowl kind of gal and it is jam packed with simple carbs, healthy fats and high in protein.  In other words sour cream and shredded cheese is not included.  My order is: brown rice, black beans, fajita peppers, chicken, mild and corn salsa, guacamole, and extra lettuce. It's super filling and lip smacking good, even without the unnecessary fattening ingredients.  Being gluten free and a healthier eater, I never miss a beat and make sure my healthy lifestyle does not get in the way from me enjoying my life. So next time you decide to eat out, make sure to scan the menu throughly and pick out the item that will benefit your health and your improved lifestyle. Good luck!

*Gluten Free by Chance, Healthy by Choice*
-Laura Rita-

"Everything Happens For a Reason"

Hello Fellow Bloggers!,
   I hope each of you had an excellent hump day and a jump start into the new month! Today's blog is mainly going to be focused on simple advice that everyone should remind themselves of consistently to give a piece of mind and stop constantly searching for answers or reasoning.  "Everything happens for a reason." I understand many people can argue and state that it is untrue and life is unplanned and everything happens unexpectedly. I get it.  But personally I think that our past experiences happen to each of us, for the sole purpose, to mold us into the person we are today.  I can honestly tell you I am a very different person from when I entered college four years ago and I would even say I am considered a different person from just one year ago.  I am constantly changing because life is constantly happening and each experience I have received, either good or bad, has formed me into this 21 year old woman that I am so proud to be.  I am happy, healthy, energetic, loud, tad obnoxious, curious, observant, comfortable, confident, tad aggressive, creative, loving, caring, beautiful and more.  And being proud of who I am helps me focus on what is truly important to me, which is my family and friends.  I whole heartedly try to be the best daughter, granddaughter, sister, and friend I can possibly be every single day.  Why? Because it makes me extremely happy knowing that I am going out of my way to make sure the important people in my life are happy too. To hear my mom say she is proud of me or my best friend saying thanking me for being such a great friend is the most rewarding and heart warming feeling I could ever receive. So always remember "Everything happens for a reason" and let that mind of yours accept it, settle down, and embrace the beauty within the logic.

*Gluten Free by Chance, Healthy by Choice*
-Laura Rita-

Short Term Goal Checklist

Hello Fellow Bloggers,
   Happy Monday! It's another new week to become proactive and fulfill those short term goals you may have floating in that head of yours.  For me, those short term goals are what keeps my life interesting.  I am always up for a challenge and seeing how far I can push myself or improve on those bad habits of mine.  With my last semester in full swing, I have been diagnosed with a bad case of SENIORitis. (Google Definition: a supposed affliction of students in their final year of high school or college, characterized by a decline in motivation or performance.) It's pretty serious and incurable.  Since the diagnosis, my life at school has been a tad bit of a struggle.  Homework and laundry have become dominated by Netflix and hanging out with friends.  Believe me, I am not complaining, but realistically I am still a student for another two and a half months and deadlines needs to be met. So, to get myself going in morning, after I pressed the snooze button two or three times, is by forming a short term goal checklist for the day.  For starters, I always set an alarm, even if I don't have class that morning.  Once I finally brave the cold and strip the covers off my body I am in business.  I always start the morning with a good breakfast and a nice cup of coffee. Today for instance, a bowl of raspberry granola with almond milk, topped with a chopped up banana and a side of a dark roast cup of coffee.  As I fuel up, the short term goal planning begins. "Okay the heck do I need to do today?!"  Typically my list consists of gym, cleaning, homework, internship, and of coarse I need to schedule when I can squeeze in my "Netflix Time."  Even though, it is strictly a mental checklist, it honestly helps me stay focused and accomplish whatever needs to be fulfilled.  I am assuming majority of people also use this savvy technique, but you would be surprised on how many people wake up with no plan or drive for there day.  That immediately results in an unproductive day and can potentially result in a unproductive semester or year.  So, to those other fellow bloggers who have also been diagnosed with Senioritis, lets get those mental checklists forming, so we can end our last semester of college on a high note.  I am not saying always choose homework and laundry over having fun, but once in awhile try to squeeze in whats important on that list of yours.  With that, I must start checking off my list but feel free to share your short term list below or maybe other techniques on how to fight Senioritis.

*Gluten Free by Chance, Healthy by Choice*
-Laura Rita-

Short Term Bucket List

Hello Fellow Bloggers,

   The past three weeks, I provided helpful tips on how to stay driven and dedicated towards current goals in order to maintain a happy and healthy lifestyle.  Well, today I wanted to discuss those certain ideas or goals that you always wanted to full fill, but you never got around to acting on the matter.  For instance, with graduation vastly approaching in a short three months I have really been focusing on a plan, or list, of things I want to do in the next few years when I have the opportunity to do them. A short term bucket list I suppose.  A bucket list full of adventure that  will mold me into a better version of myself based off those certain experiences. I have never actually finalized these exact goals, or written them down for that matter, until this very moment. So here goes nothing.

1.) Backpack Europe

  -When I traveled abroad to London for three weeks with my university, I became obsessed with the idea of traveling and seeing everything. So this is essential.

2.) United States Road Trip

   -I have lived in the city of Chicago for my entire life and have only visited 8 other states. I need to see what America has to offer.

3.) Hike the Grand Canon

   -Oddly enough, I have never hiked before, but I love the outdoors and nature. I know that it would make me extremely happy.

4.) Move out of State

  -I visited Washington D.C. over the summer with my family and I fell in love with the east coast, the  atmosphere, and the people.  Everyone was an individual and accepting of others. It is an incredible place.

5.)Keep my Word

  -I have the tendency of saying that I will do these incredible things to make sure I live my life to the fullest and then years pass and I haven't had any adventure. So I am keeping my word.

6.) Live my Life to the Absolute Fullest.

  -You have one life, take advantage, have fun, and make memories.

These are my six "Dream Goals" that fill my short term Bucket List and I want to fulfill these goals by the time I am 30.  I understand that is a lot of adventure for a short period of time, but I know I can definitely accomplish it and sure as hell have a ton of fun. I am so excited. So, to all my fellow bloggers, what does your short term Bucket List consist of? Please share below for me to read and enjoy.

*Gluten Free by Chance, Healthy by Choice*

-Laura Rita-

Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle

I just realized that I should of started my blog with a little introduction of myself or to at least explain why my blog name is what it is.  Well for starters my name is Laura Picardi, I am a 21 year old born and raised in an all Italian family in the city of Chicago.  I was diagnosed with Celiac disease eight years ago and have been living the gluten free lifestyle since. Not only do I maintain a healthy, well balanced diet, but I also maintain a healthy lifestyle by weight training.  I have been weight training for two years now, which has improved my physical and mental health substantially.  And that basically sums up why my blog name is Gluten Free by Chance, Healthy by Choice.  I wanted to create a blog that provides helpful tips and tools on how to live a healthier, mental and physical lifestyle.  My past two blogs explained goals and dedication, which everyone should either possess or acquire to keep themselves driven for a successful future. Personally, I think in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle, a person must be driven, devoted, involved, active, eager, and most importantly happy.  Each of these qualities motivates me to wake up early in the morning and go to the gym, stay on top of my school work, work harder in my internship, be successful, and most importantly be the best daughter, sister, and friend I can possibly be.  To be the best version of yourself is what will make you the most happy and that in itself is maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

I wish everyone a lifetime full of happiness and success.

*Gluten Free by Chance, Healthy by Choice*
-Laura Rita-

Dedicated

As a kid my parents made sure I was very involved within my school and our community.  They did not want their daughter to miss a beat.  With that being said I was placed into ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, ceramics, drawing, painting, soccer, tee-ball, softball, basketball, volleyball, swimming, cheerleading, martial arts, daisies, brownies, girl scouts, theatre, choir, and endless years of summer camp.  I may have missed a few, but overall I was involved A LOT.  My parents wanted to make sure I was busy, active, and mainly hoping something would stick. Eventually, the list of 22 activities narrowed down to two, cheerleading and theatre. I cheered for a total of a 8 years, 6/8 competitively and performed in 6 theatre productions.  The main reasons why those two activities stuck was because it was active, fast paced, challenging, extremely tedious, and I was fascinated with body memorization.  But probably the main reason of why I loved to cheer and perform was because of my parents involvement within each.  My parents attended over thirty cheerleading competitions and almost twenty-five performances. Thats dedication. But hey, they were my number one fans and I also made sure their butts where at each event to watch me perform.  I loved the idea of having my parents watch me perform under pressure, see my capabilities, and making them proud.  That has and always will be my drive for the rest of my life, making my parents proud.  I definitely owe that to them for everything they have done for me, in addition for them placing me into 22 activities or more.  If they were so dedicated to make sure I find my path, I will always be dedicated in making them proud in return.

What are you dedicated towards? Let me know within the comment box!

*Gluten Free by Chance, Healthy by Choice*
-Laura Rita-